So far, Bill Clinton has been a major campaign asset for Hillary. But his recent, highly publicized emergence as the power behind the skirt, instructing her campaign team on strategy and tactics, could easily damage her. If voters think that in every crunch Bill will be taking charge, they will have much less confidence in her as a strong, effective leader. Hillary must show that she is capable of winning on her own.

Meanwhile, the world this weekend, slipped perilously closer to an environmental disaster as nations in the Bali conference could agree only to vague declarations about carbon reductions. Clearly, the Bush Administration won't to step up the challenge. Which of today's presidential candidates is now willing to come forward with courage on climate change?

"If voters think that in every crunch Bill will be taking charge, they will have much less confidence in her as a strong, effective leader."

Not sure that's true, David. I would certainly prefer that Bill be taking charge every time the current incumbent, for instance, does something stupid. Like, daily...

Posted By Arachnae, Sterling VA : 11:47 AM ET

Elections and Environments. I think whoever is elected President will have good intentions. All of them..However, it will remain to be seen how much influence the special interests groups will have. My guess? A whole lot. A whole, whole, lot. Take Care

The way I see it, we're not going to slow climate warming by making rich people pay taxes on their excessive energy consumption, which if Im not mistaken is Al Gore's idea. Shouldn't we address the fact that supply is the reason we pay so much for oil? We have oil of our own in Alaska, off the coast of Fla. We can also increase nuclear power, which is safer now with advance technology. Let's increase our own supply before assuming Congress should take more taxes from the people to "solve" energy issues.

Posted By xtina chicago IL : 12:20 PM ET

David/AC360:Al Gore... but he is not running for president this time around.

At the debates the Democratic candidates are open to topics on environmental issues....but, as much as I can see, it is not stable platform to grab and run with during the campaigns....at least not yet.

Categorizing Bill Clinton's role as "the power behind the skirt" is a bit exaggerated, don't you think? Every candidate running has political advisors that help instruct their campaign team; they just happen not to be so fortunate to have one of America's greatest past presidents at their disposal. Besides, Clinton has done an exceptional job while in public service. What more must she do to show she is capable?

Personally, considering George W. has stated that he consults with (myths such as) God before making important decisions- like leading us into war- I feel relieved that our next president will seek help from an actual person with extraordinary talents and experience. This collaboration will only make our new government stronger.

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